The figures were awesome: 1,429 students, 41 countries and territories, $3 million in prizes, 4 hours.

Every year, the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a fun, exciting, and often overwhelming experience for the high school students who earn a spot at the competition. The same goes for journalists.

It was my job at this year's ISEF to troll the aisles in the exhibit hall, interview students about their projec...